Fellowship 2026 of the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO)

For international students, the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship 2026–2027 offers full funding. The recipient of this fellowship receives a stipend of up to US$50,000 to assist with living expenses and return flights. Young ophthalmologists from around the world who wish to do basic or clinical research at a selected university are eligible to apply for the ICO-Allergan Advanced Research Fellowship. Enhancing ophthalmic education to improve eye care and aid in the preservation and restoration of vision worldwide is one of the ICO’s primary goals and responsibilities. The ICO offers educational initiatives and programs to support and advance ophthalmic education, especially in poor countries, in order to fulfill this objective.

Summary of International Council of Ophthalmology:

• Level of Study: Research Fellowship, Postdoctoral
• Institution(s): The chosen university,(preferably in a foreign country where they live)
• Study in: All over the world
• Deadline: March 31 / September 30 (each year)
• Funded: Fully Funded

Benefits of International Council of Ophthalmology:

A stipend of up to US$50,000 is awarded to the recipient of an International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship to assist with living expenses and return travel.

Eligibility Criteria of International Council of Ophthalmology:

This scholarship requires the following qualification:

• Eligible Countries: All World Countries.
• Required Language: English
• Basic Requirements:
  • Applications will be accepted for research work in the following sub-specialties: Glaucoma, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Retina, Tumours, Uveitis, Dry Eye, and Cornea.
  • Copy of specialist exam in ophthalmology that must be successfully passed.
  • Applicants must be reasonably fluent in the language of the fellowship training center.
  • Applicants must be under 40 years of age at the time of applying.
  • Minimum 12 months of research training.
  • Online application on the ICO website.
  • The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO exams. We consider this in the assessment of applications from HERE.
  • Applicants from countries with ophthalmologic societies that are Members of the ICO will receive special consideration To learn more about members of the ICO, click HERE.
• Research Requirements:
  • Description of previous work in the field of application
  • Detailed CV, including a detailed publications list and impact factors
  • Endorsement of the current program director
  • Feasibility confirmation of the chosen host university
  • A detailed description of how research work should be continued during the fellowship
  • Sustainability statement, e.g., confirmation from the present program director that the applicant may return after his/her fellowship and resume his/her position.

How to Apply for International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship?

Please follow the following steps to apply for this fellowship:

1. Select a Fellowship: After identifying your country, the ICO Fellowship(s) you are eligible for will be shown.
2. Complete Eligibility Check: You will be asked to provide information in order to determine if you are eligible to receive the selected ICO Fellowship.
3. Fellowship Application Submitted: You will be notified that your application is complete and will be reviewed by the appropriate ICO Fellowship Committee.
4. ICO Eligibility Review: After your information is submitted to the ICO your eligibility will be determined. You will be notified of the decision and asked to complete the application or informed that you are not eligible.
5. Apply to a Host Training Center: If you are eligible, you will select and apply to a host. Please note that you may only apply to one host at a time.
6. You will need to create an ICO Account if you do not already have one.
7. Host Application Review: Your request will be reviewed by the host you have selected. If accepted, you will need to confirm details agreed upon between you and the host. If your request is declined, you will need to select another host.

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